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The Phinsider fantasy football takes on Malik Willis
Every source-backed article insight STACKED has extracted from The Phinsider about Malik Willis.
69
Insights
25
Positive
6
Negative
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All The Phinsider insights about Malik Willis
NegativeRoleSep 15, 2026
Willis, the rookie QB, played 56 snaps (about 10% of his career total). The source says he was 'ok' overall and didn't play poorly, but took some bad sacks. The source attributes some sacks to poor blocking and credits Raiders edge rushers (Crosby, Paye, Koonce) but notes Willis will inherently take more sacks than his predecessor due to his playing style of holding the ball longer. The source credits him with providing a rushing element Miami hasn't had and making some good throws, though game script got away from him and he tried some hero ball.NegativeRoleSep 15, 2026
Willis is a very different player than Tua with mobility that can extend plays; he held the ball too long at times and forced some passes, but his legs kept what could have been an 8-9 sack day from materializing. Needs to be in shotgun more and taught proper read-option execution; when under center, requires bootlegs with run-or-throw options and play-action passes to maximize the scheme. Willis must realize he doesn't have much time in the pocket given offensive line communication issues.NegativeRoleSep 14, 2026
Malik Willis started at QB for the Dolphins in Week 1 against the Raiders. Despite his mobility, Miami's offensive line still allowed 5 sacks, limiting Willis's ability to execute the second-half gameplan of pushing the ball downfield.NegativeProjectionSep 14, 2026
Malik Willis made his 2026 NFL debut in the Dolphins' season-opening 27-13 loss to the Raiders, with the source noting 'Uneven Willis' performance as a key takeaway from the game; Willis was sacked by Kwity Paye in the first quarter as Miami's offense sputtered throughout.NegativeRoleSep 13, 2026
Dolphins QB showed dual-threat ability with a 14-yard scramble TD run but struggled with decision-making on run-option reads; Willis threw an interception early in the second half and the source critiques his ability to read the defense on run-options and get Achane into favorable runs, suggesting he needs improvement in this area.PositiveDepth ChartSep 13, 2026
Quarterback Malik Willis is the starter for the Dolphins' Week 1 game against the Raiders.NegativeRoleSep 13, 2026
Willis is the new starting QB for the Dolphins' 2026 rebuild. The source clarifies that while the offense may appear conservative on the surface, it is not built around Willis' arm but rather around running back De'Von Achane's legs. Willis can push the ball downfield and is mobile, so the source expects him to look deep and use his legs if deep throws are not available. The offense will be run-first, using play-action to create space in the passing game, with deeper throws expected to increase as the season progresses and rookie receivers develop.NegativeRoleSep 13, 2026
Dolphins QB Malik Willis was featured in preseason action, handing off to De'von Achane during a preseason game against Washington, raising questions about his potential usage in Week 1 against the Raiders.PositiveProjectionSep 13, 2026
Fans project Malik Willis with multiple stat-line scenarios for Week 1 against Las Vegas. Projections include 250–280 passing yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT, and 40–50 rushing yards. One fan specifically forecasts 'Willis 250 Passing w 2 TD, 50 rushing, one int around 95 passer rating,' while another projects 'Willis with 50 on the ground/280 in the air.' Willis is also listed among Pro Bowl candidates, reflecting fan confidence in his debut performance.PositiveProjectionSep 11, 2026
Willis is a first-time full-time starter at quarterback for Miami with dual-threat ability that adds complexity to the Dolphins' offense; expected to throw at least one touchdown pass in his Dolphins debut; prop bet on 0.5 passing touchdowns is an easy over, with potential scoring plays including a short pass to Achane or a pass to Dulcich in the end zone.NegativeRoleSep 10, 2026
Starting quarterback for Miami in Week One against Las Vegas; will have a full complement of offensive weapons including rookies Caleb Douglas and Kevin Coleman Jr., Malik Washington, tight end Greg Dulcich, and running back De'Von Achane.NegativeRoleSep 10, 2026
Willis is the Dolphins' first-time starting quarterback in 2026, leading a young receiver room with three rookies and a second-year player expected to play real snaps. The source uses the 2022–2023 Packers as a template for how a young QB transitioning to a starting role can succeed with a rebuilt pass-catcher group, though Willis brings a running element that Jordan Love didn't, which will change defensive schemes.NegativeRoleSep 10, 2026
Making first start for Miami Dolphins in Week 1 opener against Las Vegas Raiders; described as calm and not overly stressed heading into season opener with directive to 'Go have some fun.'NegativeRoleSep 10, 2026
Quarterback is making his first start for Miami in Week 1 opener against Las Vegas Raiders. Willis is described as calm and focused heading into the opportunity, keeping his mindset simple with the approach to 'go have some fun' rather than getting overly stressed about the season opener.PositiveMatchupSep 9, 2026
Willis has a revenge narrative against former coach Mike Vrabel, which the source frames as potentially creating compelling matchups when the Dolphins face Vrabel's team; this storyline is positioned as a potential upside driver for Willis's fantasy value in 2026.PositiveProjectionSep 9, 2026
The source predicts Willis plays at a high level, giving opponents fits with his arm and rushing ability. If Willis throws like predicted and uses the rushing aspect of his game effectively, the Dolphins will control the clock, extend drives, and put points on the board. This quarterback play is foundational to the source's prediction that Miami wins at least 7 games in 2026. Willis is characterized as a player who has been overlooked and written off his entire life but has a chip on his shoulder and desire to be great.PositiveProjectionSep 9, 2026
The source predicts Willis will exceed baseline expectations and prove to be a franchise quarterback. Projected stat line: 314-476 completions, 3665 passing yards, 27 TDs, 9 INTs, 100.17 passer rating (66% completion percentage, 7.7 yards per attempt, 5.7% TD%, 1.8% INT%). These projections would rank 12th in yards (3 yards behind Josh Allen), 16th in completion percentage (in line with Burrow, Herbert, and Love), tied for 6th in TDs, 7th in TD%, and 10th in passer rating. The source notes that while Jaylen Waddle's loss put a dent into expectations, the rookie receiver class stepping up provides electricity to the pass-catching unit. The source emphasizes these numbers indicate Miami has found their QB for now and the future.NegativeMatchupSep 8, 2026
Malik Willis and the Dolphins face the Kirk Cousins-led Raiders in Week One under new head coach Jeff Hafley; the source frames this as a test of whether the team can climb out of a bottom-five power ranking.PositiveRoleSep 8, 2026
Willis has been named the Miami Dolphins' starting quarterback for the 2026 season after a career marked by limited opportunity and perseverance. After combining for 66 passes in 11 games with the Tennessee Titans and 89 passes in 11 games with the Green Bay Packers over two years, Willis was signed by Miami as a free agent this offseason. The Dolphins provided him stability and a chance to prove he is a capable starter in the league. Willis was also named one of six team captains, reflecting the organization's confidence in his leadership and role.NegativeRoleSep 8, 2026
Willis is the starting QB for the Dolphins in 2026, but his performance level—specifically whether he delivers 'good, but not great play'—will determine the team's draft strategy and long-term QB future. The central question for the season is whether Willis is the franchise answer or whether decent play will prevent Miami from pursuing a potentially franchise-changing QB in the 2027 draft if they remain in position to do so.PositiveRoleSep 7, 2026
Named 2026 captain in his first year as a starting quarterback and first year with the Dolphins; at age 27, Willis has immediately assumed a leadership role despite being new to the team, signaling coaching staff confidence in his ability to lead the offense.PositiveRoleSep 7, 2026
Willis was signed by the Dolphins as a free agent to be the franchise quarterback in 2026; the source argues that a GM would not sign a player to such a contract if the goal was to lose, and that Willis's success would prevent the Dolphins from being the worst team in the league.NegativeRoleSep 7, 2026
Dolphins QB entering 2026 season as the team's starting quarterback; the source frames Willis's performance as a key factor in Miami's roster composition and competitive outlook, noting the team will open their regular season before Willis has thrown a pass for the team.PositiveProjectionSep 6, 2026
Full-time starting quarterback heading into 2026 season; his ceiling is cited as one of the five biggest reasons for optimism for the Miami Dolphins heading into 2026, suggesting upside potential in his first year as a full-time starter.NegativeRoleSep 4, 2026
Willis is the starting quarterback for the Miami Dolphins in 2026. One highly important task the Dolphins have for the season is evaluating what they have in Willis ahead of the 2027 offseason, indicating the team views this year as a critical assessment period for his future with the franchise.NegativeDepth ChartSep 2, 2026
Malik Willis is the starting quarterback for the Miami Dolphins entering the 2026 season, with Kyle McCord and Brady Cook as backup options. Willis will lead the offense in the season opener against the Las Vegas Raiders on September 7.NegativeDepth ChartSep 1, 2026
Listed on Dolphins 53-man roster at quarterback position following Monday's waiver and free agent moves.NegativeDepth ChartAug 30, 2026
Remains the Dolphins' starting quarterback after the team traded away Quinn Ewers and released Mark Gronowski and Cam Miller; Willis was previously with the Green Bay Packers, where he worked with current Dolphins head coach Jeff Hafley and general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan.NegativeDepth ChartAug 30, 2026
The source projects Willis as the only quarterback on Miami's 53-man roster, with the team working to find the right backup after trading Quinn Ewers to Jacksonville and cutting Cam Miller and Mark Gronowski.NegativeRoleAug 29, 2026
Willis was signed as a free agent by Miami to replace Tua Tagovailoa after the Dolphins cut Tagovailoa this offseason. He is now the primary quarterback on the Dolphins roster heading into the 2026 season, with the team needing to find a reliable backup after Ewers was traded and neither Cam Miller nor Mark Gronowski has instilled confidence in their ability to serve as Willis's backup.NegativeRoleAug 28, 2026
Starting QB confirmed to sit in preseason finale against Atlanta Falcons; Willis and Miami's starting offense only played one drive in preseason, with limited action in subsequent week against New York Giants.PositiveProjectionAug 28, 2026
The source believes Malik Willis will be an impressive player and has already shown a high level of leadership through media interactions and accountability in practices and team meetings; head coach Jeff Hafley is measuring success by leadership from the QB position rather than wins and losses this season, and Willis has demonstrated this quality early.PositiveDepth ChartAug 28, 2026
Willis is locked in as the starting quarterback for the Dolphins' 2026 season; the source projects him to make the 53-man roster with no changes expected unless Quinn Ewers reaggravates his injury or Cam Miller has an exceptional performance in the preseason finale.NegativeRoleAug 28, 2026
Willis faces critical pressure to lead and perform in preseason; the source notes that trading the first or second pick in the 2027 draft depends on whether Willis proves to be the franchise quarterback, with the team's future contingent on his play.PositiveRoleAug 27, 2026
Quarterback had a bounce-back day during the final Dolphins training camp practice on Wednesday as Miami wrapped up their 18-practice camp slate.NegativeProjectionAug 26, 2026
Quarterback Malik Willis had one of his roughest practices on Tuesday, throwing two interceptions during 11-on-11 drills; the Dolphins offense struggled overall with pass protection issues, and Willis has cooled off recently in training camp after being on a great stretch before the team's trip to the Washington, D.C. area two weeks ago.NegativeRoleAug 24, 2026
Dolphins QB facing concern about insufficient preseason game-speed reps; if Willis underperforms in Week 1 against the Raiders—a potentially winnable matchup—the lack of preseason snaps will be a primary explanatory factor for his struggles.PositiveDepth ChartAug 22, 2026
Willis is entrenched at the top of the depth chart at quarterback for the Dolphins.NegativeRoleAug 21, 2026
Dolphins QB repeatedly sacked by Giants pass rush during joint practice; learning to deal with pass-rush pressure behind Dolphins O-line, which may have him on the run often this season. Despite the pressure, Willis led the offense to a field goal in the final situational period.NegativeMatchupAug 21, 2026
Willis faced significant pressure from the Giants' defensive front during a joint practice, with the Giants recording at least six sacks. However, Willis provided important context: Miami wasn't game planning specifically for the Giants, and he noted the offense would have "a few better options on some plays where we were just kind of stuck" in a regular-season contest. Willis acknowledged the Giants' defensive success while emphasizing this was a non-game-plan joint practice, not indicative of regular-season performance.PositiveProjectionAug 20, 2026
Second most likely offensive MVP candidate behind Achane. Multiple users (Thorny, Dolfanjoe, USMCFinPhreak, heatforlife, MiamiItaliano) identify Willis as the QB most likely to earn MVP honors if not Achane. Dolfanjoe notes that Willis becoming MVP would be significant because he's working with a supposedly weak WR crew; heatforlife states 'it has to be Willis or we are in trouble,' emphasizing QB importance. cyberflea acknowledges Willis will likely have a solid season but questions whether MVP consideration is realistic given pedestrian and unproven WR options, though notes he's working with an improved offensive line that could help him do 'special things.'PositiveProjectionAug 19, 2026
Signed by Miami Dolphins to replace Tagovailoa; through one preseason contest, his performance has been promising. Willis completed 4 of 5 throws for 43 yards while leading Miami to an opening drive touchdown against the Washington Commanders, added 9 rushing yards on two carries, and finished with a quarterback rating of 102.5.NegativeProjectionAug 18, 2026
Willis is the unproven Dolphins QB for 2026-27; while his athleticism is noted as interesting and entertaining, the source believes he has matured since his Titans days and will be above average, though QB remains a question mark until proven in actual games.NegativeRoleAug 17, 2026
Malik Willis is the starting quarterback for the Miami Dolphins in their first year of a rebuild under new head coach Jeff Hafley. The Dolphins are positioning Willis as their potential franchise quarterback. The source emphasizes that the 2026 season is built to evaluate Willis—if he plays well, the team has their answer; if he is injured or underperforms, Miami will look to draft a franchise quarterback in 2027. Willis' health and performance directly determine Ewers' playing time and the team's long-term direction.NegativeProjectionAug 17, 2026
Willis looked reasonably sharp in the first preseason drive against Washington; the O line moved people when the starters were in, and the first drive represented what Miami will start with in week 1, which looked positive. However, injury risk is a concern—if Willis gets hurt, it could be a brutal time given the weak backup QB situation.PositiveDepth ChartAug 16, 2026
Confirmed as the Dolphins' starting quarterback moving forward; led the offense to an opening drive touchdown in the preseason game against Washington. Miami will move forward with Willis at the top of the depth chart as the primary option.PositiveProjectionAug 16, 2026
Quarterback showed promise in his Miami Dolphins debut, with the offensive line looking solid. While it is too early to name him the quarterback of the future, his performance looked even better when compared to Tua Tagovailoa's first game as an Atlanta Falcon. Washington did not play its top defensive players, so context matters.PositiveRoleAug 16, 2026
Willis led the Dolphins' standout opening drive in preseason game 1, delivering impressive play early and suggesting competent quarterback execution in the first unit.PositiveProjectionAug 15, 2026
Dolphins starting quarterback led 93-yard touchdown drive in preseason debut against Washington before being pulled by coach Jeff Hafley; described as 'lights out' with strong arm, good pocket presence, and stellar athleticism and mobility; source places him in 'not a problem' pile despite youth and inexperience, suggesting optimism for the season.PositiveRoleAug 15, 2026
Starting quarterback for Miami in preseason opener; used arm and legs effectively on opening 14-play, 93-yard touchdown drive against Washington's second-team defense, demonstrating dual-threat capability.NegativeRoleAug 14, 2026
The source confirms Willis is the Dolphins' new starting quarterback and will see playing time in the opening series of the preseason opener against Washington.NegativeRoleAug 14, 2026
Head coach Jeff Hafley has indicated Malik Willis will play in the opening preseason contest against Washington, with the coaching staff choosing to get the first team developmental reps rather than sitting them out for the week.PositiveRoleAug 14, 2026
Malik Willis is expected to start for the Dolphins in preseason Week 1 against the Commanders. The source notes that when a top passer is put on the field, the team surrounds him with top receiving threats and the offensive line tasked to protect him, indicating Willis will have premium supporting cast in the game.NegativeRoleAug 14, 2026
Dolphins QB Malik Willis, signed as a free agent in the offseason, is expected to start Friday's preseason game vs. Washington. This is his fifth NFL season, but he has made only six career starts; coach Jeff Hafley notes 'It's like his rookie year,' indicating Willis needs preseason reps to prove himself despite his tenure in the league.NegativeRoleAug 14, 2026
Willis' preseason performance will be evaluated on chemistry with receivers, offensive line execution against Washington's defensive line, and early-drive execution; the source hopes to see Willis lead the team down the field for at least a field goal on his first drive.NegativeRoleAug 13, 2026
Willis is expected to start the Dolphins' preseason game Friday against the Washington Commanders, according to head coach Jeff Hafley. The source notes Hafley confirmed he plans to get Willis action early in the preseason, though he acknowledged things could change. Willis signed a three-year, $67.5 million deal with Miami after filling in for injured starter Jordan Love during the 2025 NFL season, accumulating 422 yards passing on 30 completions, 123 yards rushing, and 5 total touchdowns. Miami's new leadership is banking on Willis as a young, mobile playmaker to accelerate the organization's rebuild.NegativeRoleAug 13, 2026
Dolphins starting QB Malik Willis showed scrambling ability under pressure during the joint practice vs. Washington. Willis was forced to consistently evade pressure from Commanders defenders, showcasing his mobility. Coach Jeff Hafley confirmed Willis will play in the upcoming preseason game vs. the Commanders.NegativeRoleAug 13, 2026
The source is monitoring whether QB Malik Willis will continue to justify his role as the starter in the preseason matchup against Washington; his performance in a live game scenario is a key evaluation point for the Dolphins' quarterback situation.NegativeDepth ChartAug 11, 2026
Malik Willis is listed as the first-team quarterback on the Dolphins' first unofficial depth chart of 2026, ahead of Quinn Ewers and Cam Miller.NegativeRoleAug 10, 2026
Malik Willis has taken over at quarterback for the Miami Dolphins in 2026, and reports suggest he is building chemistry with returning receivers Malik Washington and Theo Wease during training camp.PositiveRoleAug 6, 2026
Malik Willis is identified as a running quarterback whose mobility can support a run-heavy offensive scheme; the source notes that a running game with a mobile QB can wear down defenses if the offense manages first downs consistently and controls the clock, positioning Willis as a key component of Miami's offensive strategy for 2026.NegativeRoleJul 27, 2026
Willis is positioned as the Dolphins' 2026 starting quarterback in a rebuild context. Brad Gagnon notes that while Willis and a new coaching staff could energize the franchise, the support structure around him doesn't inspire confidence as Miami enters the post-Tyreek Hill/Jaylen Waddle era with a revamped roster featuring 13 new rookies and several under-the-radar free agent signings. The Dolphins face the second-toughest schedule in the league and are projected to win 4.5 games or fewer.NegativeRoleJul 27, 2026
Willis is the new Dolphins starter with a run-first offensive approach; he is known for his ability to pick up yardage and first downs with his legs. The source notes Willis is built like an RB and should be durable, though there is concern about overuse in RPO schemes. Willis has already improved his completion percentage year over year through additional training on his passing game.PositiveSleeperJul 26, 2026
Quarterback sleeper candidate viewed as potentially underrated; rushing ability and legs can extend plays and time of possession, providing relief for young defense; contrasted favorably with Tua Tagovailoa's lack of run game; could surprise the league as a game-changer in an offense built around a big pounding offensive line and run-first concept with Ollie Gordon and De'Von Achane.NegativeRoleJul 25, 2026
Presumed starter at QB for the Miami Dolphins heading into 2026 training camp; competing for the starting role with Quinn Ewers, Cam Miller, and rookie Mark Gronowski on the roster, with free agent Jack Plummer also being worked out. GM Jon-Eric Sullivan has stated his ideal is to 'invest' in the quarterback position every year, with the team looking to draft a quarterback every year or two.NegativeRoleJul 24, 2026
The Dolphins signed new quarterback Malik Willis to lead the offense in 2026 under offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik; Willis replaces Tua Tagovailoa and will operate in a drastically different offensive scheme with new personnel including the departures of Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle.NegativeRoleJul 23, 2026
Willis is the newly signed primary quarterback for the 2026 Dolphins following Tua Tagovailoa's trade to Atlanta. His athleticism is unquestioned, but consistency as a passer will determine whether Miami commits to him beyond 2026 or enters the 2027 draft looking for their next franchise quarterback. The Dolphins plan to tailor the offense to his strengths, emphasizing play-action passing, designed quarterback runs, rollouts and moving pockets, deep shots off run action, and quick defined reads that allow him to play fast. The goal is to create an offense that stresses defenses with both Willis's arm and his legs while limiting situations that expose his current weaknesses.NegativeRoleJul 23, 2026
Signed as the 2026 starter for the Miami Dolphins; described as having a physical, mobile playing style that will likely feature more scrambling and rushing than the previous starter, which impacts roster construction decisions around backup quarterback depth.PositiveBreakoutJul 22, 2026
Willis is identified as the must-breakout QB candidate for the 2026 season; the source emphasizes he is 'the most important position in football' and notes that despite a guaranteed $45 million contract over two years, his limited action as a starter (only 6 games) qualifies him as a breakout candidate. The source trusts in coaching staff (JES and Hafley) who have been evaluating him for two seasons and believes he will 'prove all those naysayers wrong becoming the next franchise quarterback in Miami.'